While the Golden State Warriors are continuing with an extended edition of the offseason, teams inside the Orlando Bubble are vying for a ticket to the postseason’s Conference Finals.
While Stephen Curry is busy hanging out with Drake, Warriors Wire is checking in with former members of Golden State at Disney World. On Thursday, Golden State’s former center was on the sideline for the Los Angeles Lakers game four tilt against the Houston Rockets.
Although JaVale McGee has started every game at center for the Lakers in the 2020 playoffs, Frank Vogel opted to add Markieff Morris to the starting lineup over the former Warriors big man in game four. During game three, Morris got the starting nod in the second half.
In an effort to match Houston’s small-ball lineup, McGee never left the bench, receiving a DNP in game four. With a new starting lineup in place, the Lakers rolled to a 110-100 victory behind double-double performances from LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The Kentucky Wildcats product recorded 29 points on 10-of-18 shooting from the field with 12 rebounds, five assists and two blocks. James notched a near triple-double with 16 points, 15 rebounds, nine assists and two steals. In place of McGee, Morris added nine points on 4-of-10 shooting from the field with four rebounds in 23 minutes.
After the game, Davis praised Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee for handling their different roles off the bench.
Via @hmfaigen on Twitter:
Here was AD's full quote appreciating Dwight and JaVale for accepting their roles. pic.twitter.com/QZkpatLueD
— Playoff Faigen (@hmfaigen) September 11, 2020
Prior to the game, McGee donned an Oakland Athletics’ hat. During McGee’s time in Golden State, the A’s were the Warriors Bay Area neighbor.
Via @Lakers on Twitter:
Purple and Gold en route. #LakeShow ✖️ @Firstent pic.twitter.com/BmLSTnAIdK
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) September 10, 2020
Watch highlights from the Lakers game four win against the Rockets via YouTube:
With a 3-1 lead, the Lakers will have the chance to close out the series against the Rockets on Saturday at 5 P.M. PT.
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